For the past 14 years, Sydney, Haley and Shea have been loving, inspirational companions in my daily struggles with Dopa Responsive Dystonia.  In January 2022, Sydney passed away and I am deeply saddened to say that Haley passed away this past November and Shea this past December.  All three were Lab Rescue Dogs.  Sydney was found hit by a car, suffering a concussion, broken bones in her snout, the loss of several teeth, and a severed tongue.  Haley was an elusive stray, tick-ridden and pregnant when captured by animal control.  Over the past four years, she has suffered from serious hip problems and bad elbows making walking very challenging.  Last year, she was diagnosed with “bilateral primary glaucoma” causing her to lose her left eye.  Shea had four major knee surgeries over the course of her life and the past year had surgery to remove a cancerous tumor in her lung along with battling osteosarcoma.  Even with all the above health issues, they exuded happiness and love.

Walking, standing straight, and turning my head are challenges I face daily, and forever challenge my outlook on life.  Through Sydney, Haley and Shea’s enthusiasm for life and their unconditional love, I accepted and faced my challenges with the same passion, knowing life is a special gift and each day should be appreciated and lived to its fullest.  I have participated in this event for the past 5 years (3 with Sydney and 2 with Haley) and found it very rewarding.  In honor of Sydney, Haley and Shea, we are back for a sixth year to continue raising awareness and support for dystonia patients and the foundation's dedicated research. Thank you, Sydney, Haley and Shea, for all that you have done to help me over the years and continue to do in spirit.  I love and miss you so much.  You will forever be a part of me.

You can donate in memory of Sydney, Haley and Shea and support the DMRF here. Thank you.